Dodged Military Check-Up and Went Abroad for Fun! A Young Man from Sanchong Ignored Official Notices, Stayed Overseas for 2 Years, and Was Sentenced

A 21-year-old conscript from Sanchong District, New Taipei City, received a notice from the local district office scheduling his military conscription examination on December 11, 2023, but failed to report without justification. On January 18, 2024, he boarded a flight overseas under the pretext of 'tourism.' During this time, the district office sent multiple written notices. On April 24, 2024, they formally urged him to return by May 17, 2024. When he failed to comply, the office called his father on May 22, 2024, requesting assistance in urging his son’s return. However, the young man completely ignored all communications. He only returned to Taiwan on April 30, 2026, and was immediately processed according to legal procedures.

During the prosecution’s investigation, the man admitted to his wrongdoing. Prosecutors determined that he had violated both the 'Failure to Attend Conscription Examination Without Cause' and 'Failure to Return After Approved Departure' clauses under the Criminal Code for Hindering Military Service. They requested a summary judgment. The New Taipei District Court judge criticized the man harshly during the trial, stating that despite being fully aware of his legal obligation to serve, he disregarded official notices and delayed his return, thereby not only obstructing effective state management of conscription affairs but also severely undermining the fairness of the national conscription system.

As a result, the court imposed a heavier penalty under the 'Failure to Return After Approved Departure' charge, sentencing him to three months in prison, which can be commuted to a fine of NT$90,000. The ruling is not yet final and may still be appealed.